Scapa distillery

Scapa Distillery is a renowned whisky distillery situated on the Orkney islands, off the northern coast of Scotland. Established in 1885 by John T. Townsend and Macfarlane, Scapa Distillery has a rich history and is one of the last remaining distilleries to use a Lomond still for its whisky production, contributing to its unique character and flavor profile.

History

The distillery was founded in the late 19th century, during a period of rapid growth for the Scotch whisky industry. Over the years, Scapa Distillery has experienced several periods of closure and re-opening, reflecting the fluctuating fortunes of the whisky market. Despite these challenges, it has maintained its reputation for producing high-quality single malt Scotch whisky.

In the early 20th century, Scapa Distillery underwent several ownership changes and renovations to modernize its facilities. However, it managed to preserve its traditional distilling methods, including the use of a Lomond still, which is rare in the whisky industry. This still allows for greater control over the distillation process and contributes to the distinctive smooth and fruity character of Scapa whisky.

Production

Scapa Distillery's production process is notable for its traditional methods, which have been preserved over the years. The distillery sources its water from the Lingro Burn, which is known for its purity and mineral content, contributing to the whisky's flavor profile.

The distillation process at Scapa is unique due to the use of a Lomond still. Unlike traditional pot stills, the Lomond still features a rectifying plate, which allows for a more selective condensation of vapors. This results in a lighter, more refined spirit, which is then aged in oak casks to develop its full flavor and complexity.

Products

Scapa Distillery produces a range of single malt Scotch whiskies, known for their smooth, fruity, and slightly peaty character. The core range includes:

• Scapa Skiren: Aged in first-fill American oak casks, known for its smooth and sweet profile with hints of tropical fruit.
• Scapa Glansa: A peated expression, finished in casks that previously held peated whisky, offering a gentle smoky flavor alongside the distillery's characteristic fruitiness.

Visitor Experience

Scapa Distillery offers a visitor center and tours, providing whisky enthusiasts with the opportunity to explore its historic facilities and learn about the distillation process. The tours include tastings of Scapa's whiskies, allowing visitors to experience the unique flavors and aromas that make Scapa single malts distinctive.

Conclusion

Scapa Distillery stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Scotch whisky production methods. Its commitment to using a Lomond still and preserving its historic distilling techniques has ensured that Scapa's whiskies maintain their unique character and continue to be celebrated by whisky connoisseurs around the world.